NYC: East Village TV & Movie Sites Walking Tour

If you’re a film buff or just love seeing real neighborhoods transformed into movie sets, this East Village TV & Movie Sites Walking Tour could be a charming addition to your NYC itinerary. It’s not a long tour—just two hours—but it packs in a surprising number of iconic locations from beloved shows and films. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or a local looking to see your neighborhood through a different lens, this tour offers a fun, behind-the-scenes look at the East Village.

What we really appreciate about this experience is its local guide, often an actor, which adds a layer of authenticity and insider knowledge. Plus, the tour is designed in a way that’s accessible and enjoyable for most visitors, giving a good sense of the neighborhood’s pop culture significance. However, it’s important to note that it’s a walking tour, so comfortable shoes are a must, and it’s rain or shine—so be prepared for the weather.

If you’re someone who enjoys a mix of sightseeing with a splash of TV and film nostalgia, this tour is a good pick. It’s especially suited for those who love detailed stories behind the scenes and want to see more than just the typical tourist spots. But if you’re after a deep dive into NYC history or nightlife, you might want to look elsewhere. Still, for a quick, lively stroll through the East Village’s cinematic landscape, it hits the right notes.

Key Points

• Ideal for TV and movie fans curious to see where their favorite shows and films were shot.
• Two hours of walking with a friendly, knowledgeable guide makes for a relaxed, engaging experience.
• Highlights include iconic locations like the Puck Building, St. Marks Place, and the deli from “When Harry Met Sally.”
• Good value at $82 per person, especially considering the insider stories and local insights.
• Tour runs rain or shine, so plan accordingly with comfortable shoes and weather gear.
• Private group setting offers a more personalized experience compared to larger tours.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at What the Tour Offers

Starting Point and Overall Atmosphere

The tour kicks off near the northwest corner of Lafayette and East Houston Street, marked by a bright blue umbrella carried by your guide. This visual cue makes it easy to meet up and start on time. The location is lively, often bustling with locals and visitors, setting the perfect tone for a neighborhood rich in stories.

The Movie and TV Locations

We loved the way this tour maximizes the neighborhood’s cinematic history. You’ll visit spots from shows like “Broad City,” “Russian Doll,” “Girl Meets World,” and iconic crime dramas like “Law & Order: SVU.” The guide will point out the Puck Building, a striking structure seen in “Will & Grace” and “American Psycho,” giving you a chance to pose for photos in front of it—a small but memorable moment.

Another highlight is wandering through St. Marks Place, a street famous for its eclectic vibe and appearances in “Desperately Seeking Susan,” “Mad Men,” and “Broad City.” The tour makes several stops here, giving you a chance to soak in the street’s quirky charm and spot filming locations.

The Food and Drink Stops

While the tour doesn’t include food or drinks, it does stop at some notable spots, like the famous deli from “When Harry Met Sally,” where you can imagine Meg Ryan’s famous fake orgasm scene. You’ll also see the store where Charlotte bought her Rabbit in “Sex and the City,” and visit Buddakan, a restaurant known for its role as Carrie and Big’s wedding rehearsal dinner location. These moments add a tangible connection to the stories we’ve enjoyed on screen.

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Parks and Open Spaces

The tour also takes you through a park featured in “Russian Doll,” “Die Hard: Vengeance,” and even “Sesame Street.” Walking through these open areas makes the experience more relaxed and provides scenic spots for photos and quick breaks.

The Guide and Experience

One reviewer, Maribel from Puerto Rico, commented that the “Excellent tour guide” made her experience memorable. The guide’s actor background adds authenticity, making the stories more engaging and lively. The private group setting ensures a more tailored experience, avoiding the crowding common in larger tours.

Practical Details and Tips

The tour is about 2 hours long and operates in the morning and afternoon. It’s a walking tour, so wear comfortable shoes—there’s a fair amount of pavement and some uneven surfaces. The tour runs rain or shine, so packing an umbrella or raincoat is wise.

Since food and drinks aren’t included, plan to grab something before or after the tour if you want to eat. The price of $82 per person is reasonable considering the personalized storytelling, location variety, and the insider knowledge shared by your guide.

What Could Be Better?

While the tour offers great value, it is limited to the East Village, so if you’re hoping for a broader New York City film tour, you might find this too niche. Also, if you’re looking for an in-depth historical or cultural exploration beyond pop culture, this might not be the right fit. Lastly, since it’s a walking tour, it might not be suitable for those with mobility issues or very young children.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This TV and movie-focused walking tour is perfect for fans of pop culture who want insider stories and a fun way to explore a vibrant neighborhood. It’s also suited for visitors who appreciate guided storytelling, as the guide’s background as an actor adds charm and authenticity. If you enjoy casual, social outings and don’t mind walking, this is a solid choice. It’s less ideal if you prefer a comprehensive history tour or need accommodations for mobility concerns.

Final Thoughts

All in all, the East Village TV & Movie Sites Walking Tour offers a relaxed, engaging way to see a neighborhood that’s famous for its creative energy and on-screen appearances. It’s a well-priced experience that combines scenic walks with behind-the-scenes stories, making it a fun addition for film fans or those curious about the neighborhood’s cinematic footprint.

If you’re ready to connect the dots between your favorite shows and real NYC streets, this tour provides just enough insight and charm to make for a memorable outing. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for weather, and you’ll enjoy a lively, personalized glimpse into the East Village’s pop culture history.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts about 2 hours, making it a manageable and relaxed experience.

Is the tour suitable in bad weather?
Yes, it runs rain or shine, so bring an umbrella or raincoat if needed.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are a must since you’ll be walking on pavement and uneven surfaces. Sunglasses and sunscreen are also recommended.

Is it a private tour?
Yes, this tour is offered as a private group, which means it’s tailored to your party with a more personalized feel.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan accordingly before or after your walk.

Can I join if I’m not a TV or movie fan?
While it’s tailored for fans, anyone interested in a lively neighborhood walk with stories behind iconic locations will find it enjoyable.

Where does the tour meet?
Meet near the northwest corner of Lafayette and East Houston Street, where your guide will be carrying a blue umbrella.

You can check availability for your dates here: